Starting your student journey at university is both an exciting and daunting experience. There is so much to see, a lot of new information, and a whole new way of life to get used to. You may be worried that you won’t know anyone and if you will get along with your fellow students. The good news is that it’s easier to make friends when you first arrive at university than you might think. We give you some advice and guidance on the things you can do to get to know people.
Attend student orientation
This is a big one. Attending the student orientation programme not only gives you some vital information about what to expect, but you’ll also be going through it with other new students. This gives you a chance to meet and talk to people about common concerns, questions, or interests. You might also be able to help other students with some of the new information you have learnt.
University orientation programmes can have several structured activities and events for students to participate in, including:
- Campus tours
- Presentations
- Group activities
- Informational sessions
- Introduction to student services
The chances are that you will have received quite a lot of information from your university before you arrive. Going through all of this before you get to campus for the first time is a good idea. Not only will you be more familiar with what is happening, but it can also spark a conversation with other students.
Read more about how to deal with being a new international student.
Go to events and parties
The first few weeks and months at university can be overwhelming. That’s why you must give yourself the chance to have some fun and relax. Most universities will have social events and parties throughout the first week so that new students can meet and chat. These usually take place on campus in the evenings.
Allow yourself the opportunity to attend a few social engagements, where you can meet new people in a less formal environment. You’ll likely feel more at ease in these situations. What may also surprise you is the diversity of these parties and events.
You’ll likely encounter university representatives and lecturers, as well as international students and domestic students studying different degrees at various levels, from bachelor's degrees to PhDs. You can draw on their experience and knowledge while at the same time making friends.
Discover how universities make international students feel more included.
Speak to the international office
If you’re ever feeling a bit unsure during your first week at university, it’s always a good idea to speak to student services, including the international office. They can advise you on activities, events and put you in touch with student mentors or guides. You may also want to get in touch with fellow new students from your home country. The international office can also help you with this.
One of the other ways that university support services can help is by assisting you with any language requirements you might have. It can be daunting moving to an English language speaking country for the first time. This is especially true with so many new people to talk to and information to take in. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance or guidance. It can make a big difference to your first-week experience.
Don’t miss our guide to English language expressions you can use when socialising.
Join activities hosted by clubs and societies
Linking up with a student club or society is a great way to meet people with a similar interest to yourself. Most universities will offer many club and society options for students, with everything from art to sport on offer. There are even some universities with unique societies. For example, the Viking Society at the University of Plymouth in the UK. If you study in the USA, this may be a sorority or a fraternity.
Getting to know someone new with a common interest is a good foundation for a friendship. During the first week, many clubs and societies will host activities, events and get-togethers to introduce new students to what they do. You don’t necessarily have to sign up, but it’s a really good experience. You’ll definitely meet a whole lot of other new students just like yourself.
If you’re feeling a little worried about moving to study abroad and think there are things you wish you knew, we can help.
Meet people in your accommodation
One of the best places to make new friends is in your student accommodation. As an international student, you’ll likely be staying in a university residence with many other students, and you may even have a roommate. You’ll be sharing meals, common areas, and possibly even a kitchen. This means lots of time to talk. Don’t be shy to introduce yourself, and remember you can always get help and advice from student accommodation representatives and assistants.
The great thing about student accommodation is that the people you meet will be from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This is an enriching experience, a chance to learn and an opportunity to share more about your journey. You’ll likely end up doing many things with your fellow student residents, like going to events and parties. Be prepared for this new group of people to become your family away from home.
There you have it. There’s nothing to be afraid of and making friends is all about doing the small things and being yourself. If you’re getting ready to study abroad, you might find our ultimate study abroad checklist helpful. There's also our guides to the 10 questions to ask your university when you arrive.
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